Head of Public Affairs

Overview

Position:
Head of U.S. Public Affairs

Business Area:
Public Affairs, Communications & CSR

Contract Type:
Permanent

Location:

Cary, NC, US

Chiesi USA is part of Chiesi, a research-focused biopharmaceutical group with 90 years of experience operating in 31 countries. The group employs more than 8,000 people united by a mission to promote a healthier world for people, patients, and the planet. Chiesi conducts research, development, and marketing of innovative drugs across main therapeutic areas. Chiesi is a Benefit Corporation and a certified B Corp with sustainability embedded in its bylaws.

Diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity are at the heart of who we are. We believe our differences make us stronger and we are a vibrant ecosystem of passionate, talented individuals united by strong values.

• U.S. Policy Strategy and Leadership
  • Develop and lead an integrated federal and state policy and government affairs strategy that advances Chiesi’s U.S. business, patient access goals, innovation priorities, and long-term sustainability.
  • Identify, anticipate, and assess emerging legislative, regulatory, and political developments; advise leaders on risks, opportunities, and recommended actions.
• U.S. Advocacy Development and Execution
  • Lead the development of Chiesi’s U.S. policy positions, advocacy priorities, and thought leadership materials.
  • Oversee the preparation of briefing documents, comment letters, testimony, and other policy materials.
  • Coordinate responses to federal and state rule making activities and ensure high quality, timely, and aligned submissions.
• Oversee U.S. Public Affairs Governance
  • Lead governance processes, ensuring cross-functional prioritization and alignment with U.S. and global strategies.
  • Guide AIR, CARE, and Global RARE partners through policy review and decision-making processes.
  • Ensure compliance with internal guidelines, external reporting requirements, and transparency and lobbying rules.
• Stakeholder and Government Engagement
  • Build and maintain relationships with federal and state legislators, regulatory agencies, industry associations, and advocacy groups.
  • Represent Chiesi in policy forums, coalitions, partnerships, and external engagements to advance shared objectives.
  • Serve as a credible and trusted voice for Chiesi in public policy environments.
• Collaborate with U.S. Corporate Affairs and Global Public Affairs to ensure strategic consistency across policy, advocacy, and external engagement.
• Shape a policy environment that supports patient access, fosters innovation, and builds trust in Chiesi as a responsible, mission-driven biopharmaceutical company.
• Resource and Budgetary Management
  • Oversee U.S. Public Affairs financial planning, budgeting, and resource deployment.
  • Ensure fiscal responsibility and alignment of investments with strategic priorities.

• Bachelor’s degree and 7-10+ years of progressive experience in government affairs, public policy, or a related field, preferably in corporate or therapeutic area public affairs or government affairs within the pharmaceutical, biotech, or other highly regulated healthcare sectors.
• Proven ability to develop and execute federal and state policy strategies aligned to business priorities and therapeutic area needs.
• Demonstrated experience engaging with U.S. policymakers, regulatory agencies, and trade associations, including building long‑term relationships with elected and appointed officials.
• Experience participating in or leading governance processes, policy reviews, or cross‑functional decision‑making forums.
• Track record of shaping or influencing policy in areas such as drug pricing, innovation, domestic manufacturing, tariffs, and regulatory frameworks.
• Extensive experience developing strategies, managing major initiatives, and delivering results within a complex matrix environment.
• Experience collaborating with key resources and stakeholders, influencing decisions, and managing work to achieve strategic goals and shared objectives.
• High-level business acumen in business operations, industry practices, and emerging trends.
• Based in or willing to relocate to Cary, NC.

Hybrid role based in…